A Little Bit of Japan in an Australian Country House

Interior design studio Doherty Design has breathed new life into a former farm building in the heart of the Australian countryside. Their client had lived and worked in Japan and requested that they incorporate elements of Japanese design throughout this old building in Beechworth, Victoria.

The result sees an interesting contrast between the exterior, which has a rustic aspect, and the interior, which has been totally renovated. The references to Japan have been incorporated and subtly interpreted by the designers. More ambitious than the holy trinity of paper lanterns, bamboo and white walls, these references can be seen in an impressive granite-topped counter, a dining area inspired by foldable ‘chabudai’ tea tables and colours, prints and materials which are at once dark (grey, navy blue, black, beige, burgundy, leather, wood panels) and daring in their omnipresence. And this refinement has paid off: in 2018, Doherty Design Studio was awarded the IDEA (Interior Design Excellence Award) for excellence in their work and attention to detail.